Many people believe financial and emotional struggles appear suddenly, but often they begin when we fail to set healthy boundaries. Being generous is not the same as being naive. Order in life, as reflected by thinkers like Yokoi Kenji, is not coldness but self-respect — when there is order, there is clarity, and when there is clarity, prosperity follows. Certain things should never be lent, not out of selfishness, but out of wisdom. Never lend your peace to people who thrive on drama, your time to those who waste it, or your emotional space to constant complainers. Protect your home from disruptive influences, your reputation from risky favors, and your signature from obligations that could trap you. Money, too, should never be lent without clear terms, because vague generosity often breeds resentment instead of gratitude.
Even more importantly, never lend your emotional energy to manipulation or guilt, and never lend out your purpose by saying yes to paths that aren’t yours. Every misplaced “yes” quietly drains focus, motivation, and inner strength. True kindness doesn’t require self-destruction; real support does not mean carrying someone else’s life on your back. Learning to say no without guilt, setting clear conditions for help, and recognizing whether you are giving a gift or a loan are essential acts of self-care. Peace, time, reputation, and purpose are priceless assets. Poverty doesn’t always come from lack of money — often it comes from lack of boundaries. The greatest losses rarely begin with dramatic mistakes, but with small decisions that slowly erode stability. Bringing order to your life is not just practical — it’s a powerful act of self-respect.